Seoul: The Constitutional Court has affirmed the legality of the requirement for the unification minister's approval to import items from North Korea. This decision was reached with an eight-to-one ruling, dismissing a complaint by Jin Chun-kyu, head of Tongil TV, who challenged the legal provision last year.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the issue centers around the Inter-Korean Exchange and Cooperation Act, which mandates that individuals seeking to export or import goods to and from North Korea must obtain approval from the unification minister. The court emphasized the importance of this requirement by highlighting the "sensitivity" and "gravity" involved in inter-Korean relations.
The court reasoned that the unique and complex nature of South and North Korean relations, along with international dynamics, necessitates cautious regulation to prevent potential harm. It further stated that the criminal penalties for unauthorized imports are consistent with legislative discretion.
Jin Chun-kyu's legal troubles began when he was convicted of importing North Korean books, videos, and other materials through Incheon International Airport in August 2018, leading to a fine of 3 million won (US$2,170). Jin has since appealed the conviction, maintaining his stance against the legal provision.